Overview & Design

Android Evolution

Smartphone differentiation can be a tough order, especially when there’s a competitor that always tries to go one step further. Many a time, it's a faster processor, or a larger screen with better display technology. The HTC Evo 3D is, by all accounts, one such device.

Following the latest trend of having a dual-core 1.2GHz processor and a 4.3-inch display, this Android 2.3 device might seem like your run-of-the-mill high-end smartphone. Its name, much like the LG Optimus 3D, should provide a not so subtle hint to its unique feature: 3D. More specifically, 3D capture (photos and videos) and viewing. Question is, will 3D technology (especially on a phone) become a passing fad, or is it a key component that's now setting the bar for future smartphones? Before we proceed with our verdict, here are the highlights of the Evo 3D.

Key Highlights of the HTC Evo 3D

Google Android 2.3 with HTC Sense

4.3-inch 3D display / 960 x 540 pixels

1.2GHz Qualcomm dual-core processor

1GB RAM / 1GB ROM

Up to 32GB microSD (external)

Wi-Fi 802.11b/g/n / DLNA

2D images: 5-megapixel resolution

3D images: 2-megapixel resolution

1730mAh battery

126 x 65 x 12.05mm

170g

If you’re expecting a thin and light smartphone, manage your expectations, for the Evo 3D doesn’t fall into that category. Its massive 4.3-inch display is matched with a thick profile of 12.05mm and a hefty weight of 170g. Suffice to say, these make the Evo 3D far from being a portable smartphone. That being said, we were surprised at how sturdy and comfortable it felt in our hands. The grip is aided by the grooved design on its rear, providing us with a firmer grip. We do have pretty large hands; that makes us more forgiving with the phone's lengthier and wider profile. But we foresee that it could get a little troubling for those with a limited grip.

The various shortcut buttons on the Evo 3D are clearly marked, starting with the four standard shortcuts, such as home, back, search and menu. With sufficient room to navigate, we had no problems interacting with these shortcuts. Multimedia controls, such as the volume and camera buttons, are isolated to the right. Incidentally, this is where you’ll find the physical slider that lets you switch between the 2D and 3D imaging capabilities of this HTC device. This leaves the fully exposed micro-USB port clear of any obstruction on the left of its profile.

The rear of the Evo 3D presents a pair of stereoscopic cameras, with a red border framed over both cameras. The design does bring up some nostalgia, with its uncanny resemblance to the good old cassette tape. Removal of the Evo 3D’s casing is not as tough as we expected; there's an obvious notch for us to hook and pry the casing off the main body. Underneath the casing, you’ll find a hot-swappable microSD card. But remember, always unmount the card to prevent data corruption. As usual, you’ll have to remove the battery to access the SIM card.